We had the good fortune of connecting with Ayesha Kosaka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ayesha, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I’ve had a couple burnouts throughout college, and by 2018 I made a commitment to being mindful of my balance of life. Before, I refused to give myself a break; I was willing to lose sleep, neglect time with family/friends, and would not let anything get in the way of my career goals. The funny thing was, that was the exact thing getting in the way of me reaching my fullest potential. After reevaluating how my cup was being refilled, I began focusing on that, and revolved my work around ways that will fill me up as well. Obviously much easier said than done, but being mindful of what really matters most to me and tending to those needs has brought much peace.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art stems from some of the most valuable lessons, morals, and experiences I’ve gone through. Whether that be about identity, spirituality, or societal nuances, you’ll see a mixture of all these elements in my films and writing. I really wouldn’t be where I am if it wasn’t for my Co-Founders Chase and Charlette. I always knew I was a creator, but it is because of them I was able to see it as a career path — bringing things to life — and actually pursuing my dreams. Being with them, I learned to stay true to your vision, even if no one else sees it all the way through.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Definitely gotta show them the culture and community throughout LA! A trip to Simply Wholesome is a must, grab a Jazz Cake from Jamz Creamery for dessert, a nice lil sunset drive down PCH, probably a quick link up with the homies, and a late night snack trip to Fabulous Burgers for some fried zucchini 🙂 stay till the morning and we gotta grab some shrimp and grits from Simply D’ Licious Southern Creole Cuisine! A nice food trip will definitely make the tummy and soul quite happy haha

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I am without my family: Mom, Pops, Baba, Sky, and Taz, I love you with all my heart. To my extended family and friends: I love y’all and am so grateful to have you in my corner. Forever blessed for everyone who’s rode this wave with me!

Website: https://www.akosakaprojects.com/about

Instagram: @the.ai.ko

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayeshakosaka/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJsqjf6Dbtpnbgu595nC6mw

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